Position analysis: The Packers still think Williams can get back to his 2010 level, when he was one of the league’s top cover corners. He hasn’t been as effective since the shoulder injury in the 2011 opener that caused nerve damage. Said Packers coach Mike McCarthy recently: “I know he wants to get back to the way he played in 2010, because that was an incredible year for him personally. Once again, injuries are part of the game, and sometimes it takes a little longer than others.” Shields covered so well in the 12 games (including playoffs) he played last season that he could surpass Williams as the team’s top outside cover man. Or he could revert to his poor play of 2011. On the inside, Hayward was a difference maker after Charles Woodson broke his collarbone. Playing almost exclusively against slot receivers, he led all rookies last season with six interceptions. It remains to be seen whether Hayward will continue to play only in the sub packages (nickel and dime) or if he’ll add base play on the outside to his duties. House looked like he might compete for a starting job last year but was rendered ineffective because of a preseason shoulder injury. Nixon, who also has some kick return ability, spent all but the first two weeks of last season on the practice squad. Means was a street free agent signed this offseason.

At safety, Burnett was the only defensive player to take every snap last season but didn’t make many big plays (two interceptions, five pass breakups). The Packers are still waiting for him to replace Nick Collins’ playmaking ability. Said McCarthy: “I really like Morgan Burnett. I feel like he’s going to take a big step this year. I look for his leadership to improve. Morgan does everything that you ask. He’s got to start cashing in on the opportunities he has around the ball. I thought he did an excellent job when Charles (Woodson) went down with his injury, playing down around the line of scrimmage. I thought Morgan was extremely disciplined and productive down there.” Jennings and McMillian split time after Woodson was knocked out of action. Jennings was better in coverage while McMillian’s strength was playing near the line of scrimmage. Richardson made the team as an undrafted free agent but sustained a season-ending neck injury that required surgery. Powell was signed to the practice squad for the final month of the season. Said McCarthy: “I like our young guys. McMillian, he’s here every day. He’s been back for quite some time. He’s in there working out. I don’t talk to them, I’m not allowed, but he’s in there and M.D. Jennings, he needs to grow. He made some strides. Sean Richardson’s back and hopefully he can get healthy. We’ve got some really good young guys.”

The future: The Packers cut Woodson because they felt it was time to get younger and faster in the back end. While the cornerback spot looks solid, safety is one of the top needs. Kenny Vaccaro of Texas probably won’t be available to the Packers at No. 26 but Eric Reid of LSU, Matt Elam of Florida and Jonathan Cyprien of Florida International might be there.